Kyoto Aquarium Seal Diary: Let's try to distinguish between the spotted seals at Kyoto Aquarium!

In my last column, I introduced how to distinguish between the bottlenose dolphins living at the Kyoto Aquarium. Did you all get a chance to read it? I would be so happy if anyone who read it was able to tell them apart!
In this second installment, animal care staff Sato, who is in charge of dolphins and seals, will introduce how to tell the three spotted seals apart. Just like with the dolphins, if you observe them carefully, each has easily recognizable characteristics.

Now, let's introduce the characteristics of each one!

● White

Its body color (especially around the head) is black, its whiskers grow in an arc, and it has droopy eyes.

● Hikaru

They have distinct sesame-seed markings, short, straight whiskers, and heart-shaped nostrils.

● Hama

It has a white body, is the largest in size, and its eyes are wide open, revealing the whites of its eyes.

We would be delighted if you could remember these characteristics and be able to distinguish the seals at Kyoto Aquarium. There are many easy-to-understand points to distinguish the seals, such as their body color and how their whiskers grow. Please give it a try!

In addition to their appearance, seals can also be distinguished by how they eat. We've filmed them actually eating, so please watch the video and learn about their characteristics!

● After finishing eating, Shiro makes small, quick mouth movements.

● Hikaru eats his meal with his eyes closed.

● Eat the amberjack by turning it sideways and folding it.

Of the three, Hama's eating style is particularly distinctive. Many fish-eating animals, such as seals and dolphins, swallow fish whole, headfirst, to avoid getting their fins or spines caught. However, Hama puts a fish straight into her mouth, then turns it sideways and folds it as she eats. With larger fish, she has to chew more and it takes longer to swallow, which can make you wonder, "Isn't it difficult for her to eat?" But it seems she actually likes this way of eating. At Kyoto Aquarium, they feed the three two to three times a day. Feeding time is a great opportunity to distinguish between the three, so please be sure to observe them when you visit. Come and meet these three unique individuals!

Furthermore, the seals at Kyoto Aquarium often take naps, each in their own favorite spot. The location and style of their naps change depending on the season, so I'd like to introduce them in the next column. Please look forward to the next installment!